On Wednesday, last week, I was fortunate enough to be invited along to Somerset House for a fashion show and afternoon tea. Not knowing what to expect, off I headed where I had organised to meet up with two colleagues, Chelsea Bidwill of Beyond Weddings and Sophie Mutevelian a wedding photographer.
The event organised by Triggerfish, was really well thought out alongside Somerset House. On arrival we were met by a hostess which was a lovely touch and on reaching the first floor the registration desk was fragrant with beautiful arrangements by Pinstripes & Peonies. 
To start off the afternoon experience, we had non-alcoholic mock tails and general mingling which was nice to catch up with old colleagues.
Then, we were invited to go through for afternoon tea and the fashion show. The Portico room was set up beautifully, in fact the best set up for a fun afternoon I have seen in a long time. The perfect setting for an intimate wedding breakfast as balconies on both sides, overlooking the River Thames and the main courtyard. 
However, for today’s event were a series of tables set up for four people, laid up with stunning vintage crockery by The Crockery Cupboard. And, standing in each corner of the room on a small stage were four stunning models showcasing Johanna Hehir’s bridal designs. 
Once we were all in place, Fisher Productions who provided the lighting and sound and effects, cranked up the music and we had the first show.
Following on from the show, Table Talk came into the lime light with a spectacular spread presented beautifully. Where we had a traditional English afternoon tea, with a clear favourite of mine the cucumber sandwich. 
Then, it was onto the ham sandwich to a salmon on rye. Then moving on the sweet element, and cupcakes and macaroons of which I seemed to consume 80% on my table as, I was told they were not as fattening as the cupcakes! After, the afternoon tea we had another fashion show with a further four dresses.
Then, just when you thought it was over, out came the canapés and again very tasty, from Tiger prawns with chorizo, to Seared beef dumpling on lotus root crisp, to a crispy duck confit lollipop. Served alongside these were Rose petal martini’s however, I was sadly unable to part take as on antibiotics but the pear, ginger and elderflower sparkler was stunning.
It was a stunning way to spend an afternoon with the sun shining, though a breeze standing on the balcony overlooking the new exhibition seen below.
So, if you are looking for something different in the heart of London, for an intimate wedding then you need to check out Somerset House at www.somersethouse.org.uk.
Pictures were taken by Chelsea Bidwill as I forgot my camera – thanks.
Event Management Consultant and Fundraiser 